Porokeratoses—A Rare Group of Dermatoses

Abstract

Porokeratoses represent a rare group of skin diseases characterized by abnormal keratinization. The condition may have a genetic background and can be triggered by environmental factors, including UV exposure and infections. Several clinical variants of porokeratosis can be distinguished, including Mibelli’s porokeratosis, disseminated superficial actinic porokeratosis, superficial disseminated porokeratosis, and porokeratosis palmaris plantaris et disseminata. Diagnosis is established based on clinical and histopathological examination, dermatoscopy, and reflectance confocal microscopy. Various treatment options are available, including topical combination therapy with cholesterol and statins, topical retinoids, cryotherapy, laser therapy, and surgical excision of lesions, but none are fully effective. The success of these treatments can vary significantly based on the specific type of porokeratosis and individual patient characteristics, with many outcomes falling short of expectations. Since the disease is considered a precancerous condition, patients with porokeratosis should remain under regular dermatological control.